Prepare for the GMAT Exam

Preparing for the GMAT is like any goal that’s important to you. Start with a plan, execute it, and you’ll succeed.

The GMAT exam may seem intimidating at first, but it’s really just a test of the skills you’ve learned over time. Understanding the format, practicing sample questions, and reviewing one section at a time will help you arrive fully prepared on the day of your exam.

Before you start preparing, be sure to download GMATPrep® Software, free to registered users of mba.com, a great diagnostic tool to help you discover which areas of the exam to focus on. Our GMAT Prep Timeline provides a step-by-step approach to your personal study plan, and includes links to tips, products, and advice for improving your weak areas and enhancing your strengths. Other helpful links include:

Preparing for and doing well on the GMAT exam lets you show schools that you have what it takes to succeed in the business school classroom. You can do it, but you’ll need to prepare by creating a solid study plan, selecting the right prep materials, and knowing what to expect before, during, and after your test day.

GMAT Handbook

The GMAT Handbook helps you put your best foot forward. Read it before you schedule your exam so that you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the exam.Learn More

New! Official Guide for GMAT® Review 2015

Now featuring an online question bank and exclusive video content.Buy Now

Download Free GMATPrep® Software

Prepare for your best GMAT with a firsthand look at what the exam is really like. Learn More

Test Taking Advice from ISB, Hyderabad

Study Smart for Your Best GMAT

When it comes to studying for the GMAT exam, there are no magic formulas, no secrets, no tricks—just planning and preparation. Understanding the test will help you bring out the best of your abilities.Learn More

Get GMAT Prep Advice from Students and Alumni

Who better to offer GMAT preparation advice than current students who took the exam and are now well on their way to success—in the classroom and in their careers.Watch the Videos

Out of the GMAT Fray: 8 Steps to a Winning GMAT Prep Plan

You can succeed on the GMAT exam. Read this checklist to build your confidence and develop a winning approach.Learn More

Meet Students: GMAT Test-Taking Advice

Get tips and advice from recent GMAT test takers. Discover why students value the GMAT exam in the admissions process and what you can expect when taking it. Learn More

Test Taking Mistakes You Can Avoid

To do your best on the GMAT exam, understand the question types and format, and develop a study plan that works for you. These tips will put you on the right path.Learn More

Hear from Students: Prep Tips for Success

Succeeding on the GMAT exam is all about putting in the time and dedication to do well. If you commit to your study plan, you will get the score you want.Watch the Video

Hear from Students: Test-Day Tips for Success

Keep these five test-taking tips in mind so that you're fully prepared on the day of your exam.Watch the Video

Now that you've prepared and practiced for your best GMAT, you're ready to go in and give it your all. Being fully confident and relaxed on the day of your exam means knowing what to expect at the test center and understanding what's expected of you.

Take a Tour of the Test Center

Knowing what to expect at the test center will you ease any nervousness and arrive fully confident on the day of your exam.Watch the Video

The Interactive GMAT Prep Timeline

Use this interactive tool to manage your GMAT preparation and make your study efforts effective and efficient.Learn More

View Country Specific Test Center Regulations

Understand the ID requirements, test center rules and agreement, and whether a VAT applies in the country in which you plan to take the GMAT exam.Learn More

Planning for Your Test Day

Before the day of your GMAT exam, you will want to review these regulations so that you arrive confident, focused, and ready to do you best.Learn More

Exam Day Advice from Test Takers

Find out what these former GMAT test takers did to ease their jitters on the day of their exam.Watch the Video

GMAT Test Center Checklist

Download our GMAT Test Center infographic for a quick snapshot of the items you must bring with you and the ones you'll need to leave behind on the day of your exam.Learn More

Presenting Proper Identification

To take the GMAT exam, you must bring acceptable and valid identification (ID). Watch this video to ensure a smooth test-taking experience.Learn More

Palm Vein Reader Biometric Identification

The palm vein reader is part of an ongoing effort to maintain test integrity and ensure that the exam is fair for everyone.Learn More

GMAT Exam Administration Rules

The GMAT exam is governed by administration rules that help ensure its validity and reliability. Understand these rules to help ensure a smooth test-taking experience.Learn More

Rights and Responsibilites of GMAT Test Takers

Prior to taking the GMAT exam, you will want to understand what to expect and what is expected of you.Learn More

Test Complaints and Concerns

Send any written complaint or concern to GMAT Customer Service immediately following the test administration.Learn More

GMAT Non-Disclosure Agreement and General Terms of Use

This example of the GMAT exam Non-Disclosure Agreement and General Terms of Use will be provided to you on the day of your exam.Learn More

Paying for the GMAT Exam

In addition to the cost of taking the GMAT exam, fees may also apply for rescheduling your exam and ordering additional score reports.Learn More